IX

Schism

『S-Day +29』

『High Servant's Quarters』

“Mm.” Alicia moaned.

“Oh god...” Her hands gripping the bedsheets.

“Higher, just a little higher.” She urged me.

“Right there! Oh god right there.”

“Do you really have to make such erotic sounds? It's very misleading.” I said, letting go of her foot.

“Why'd you stop?!”

“Give me the other one.”

“Mm.” Alicia moaned.

「Skill Learned: Foot Massage: Level 1」

After the events of last night, I wanted to explore more of Alicia's body and gather more skill points, but mostly explore her body. She is really pretty. When we awoke this morning and fulfilled our morning routine I stopped her from leaving the apartment. I dragged her back to the bedroom after we both took our morning bath and threw her onto the bed. From my instruction, Saya brought in an amphora of olive oil which I poured a bit on my hands and started to give Alicia a massage.

Since this gave the benefit of farming skill points, I used it as an excuse to touch her body. Though it was not as much gained as copying items, but I was running out of items that could disappear without anyone asking questions. After gaining the skill I moved up to her calves. Then her thighs.

“Turn over.”

As Alicia turned around I moved up her body. Both hands on her small firm ass.

“Oh my god, don't spread it it's embarrassing.”

“Mh.” I mumbled, ignoring what she said.

I moved up to her lower back putting more pressure into the massage. More olive oil poured onto her back spilling over onto the bed staining the sheets. Her spine, her upper back, her shoulders. I massaged her all over, hands exploring and caressing.

“Onii-chan… you can if you want.”

I knew what she meant. As I moved further up her body my positioning placed me straddling her hips. Each time I leaned forward I was resting between her cheeks. She could feel it. I could feel it. I nudged her to turn over. As she did so I moved between her legs. My arms supported me as I leaned over her. With glassy eyes, she stared up at me. Her lips parted. Her breathing ragged.

“You never answered my question from before.” I said, breaking her from her reverie.

“What question?” Her gaze unfocused.

“Are we siblings? I don't remember ever having any, but I need to know.”

She moved her hand between us. Placing me at the right area.

“Do you care?”

“...No.”

I thrust forward.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Summoned Quarters – Chad's Room』

Two people laid in bed covered in sweat and heavy with breath.

“I didn't come here to have sex.” Said the blond girl.

“And yet, you couldn't help yourself. So what did you want then?” Chad replied with unhidden smugness.

“Whatever, Zoe told me about the deal she made with you.”

“Ugh, I’m backing off already. What more do you want?”

“I want all of us to make everything clear. To bury the hatchet. To figure out what each of us want. There is too much tension between us and not the good kind. I want a clean slate.”

“Fine, whatever.” He said with a sigh of resignation.

“You there, do you know where Naoki and the others are staying?” Emily asked Chad's servant.

“Forgiveness Domina, this one does not know that name.”

“The other three summoned that left.”

“Yes Domina, this one can find them.”

“Good, send them a message. We are going to have a meeting. Once they agree I will tell them the date. Go now.”

The high servant bowed and left the room to fulfill her orders.

“Why did you use mine? Where's your servant?”

“Zoe's using her right now. By the way…”

“What now?”

“You can't cum inside us anymore. We're out of birth control pills.”

“God dammit…”

☘ ☘ ☘

『High Servant's Quarters』

“Yay, we had sex. I’m so happy~.”

Alicia was snuggled against me beaming. We had spent the entire morning together having sex until we were too tired and sore to continue. Both of us lay in bed recovering our stamina.

“For the past week, have you been avoiding me?”

“Huh? No, we've both been busy. I was training and doing spy work.”

“It felt like it.”

“Veronica told me what happened, I’m sorry I wasn't there for you.”

Moments passed before she spoke once more.

“So… do you still not remember me?”

I looked at her, wracking my mind trying to find anything about her.

“I don't.”

“Oh, so not even our promise?”

“Promise?”

“Yeah, we made a promise when we were kids that we would get married.”

Hm? I’m pretty sure I made that promise with someone else.

“I remember making that promise, but it was with someone else.”

“...Who?” She glared at me.

“Um, Mizutani Honoka. My childhood friend from Japan.”

“I'm your childhood friend… not her.”

☘ ☘ ☘

『Earth – 8 Years Ago』

“And then, papa said that because there are lots and lots of tourist that come here there are lots and lots of treasures in the lake! Old man Ishikawa is always on the sands with his metal thingy looking for treasure.”

Honoka and I were spending the last day of our camping trip playing in the water. Ever since my parents brought me to Japan to meet my grandparents, I ended up living with them. They said they had an important business and that they would be back soon. They went missing, or simply just left without any contact information or what their plans were or where they went. My grandparents tried to find my other relatives back in California, but without success.

I became friends with Honoka almost immediately after we met since we lived a few houses away. We became inseparable, always together at school or at each others home. We always had fun together and always got teased about being boyfriend and girlfriend.

“Do you think there are pirate treasures?” I asked her.

“I dunno, maybe! Let's find some.”

“Kay~.”

We both separated a bit looking for signs of treasure in the waters. After wading in the deeper areas I found something.

“Look! Something shiny in the bottom of the lake.”

“Treasure! But it looks deep. We should get a net or something.”

“I can get it, it's not very deep.”

I dove down. After reaching the shining treasure I tried to grab it, but it was snagged on a rock. The rock was slightly heavy to move that I needed to plant my feet into the sand to move it. Success. The treasure was ours! My legs kicked up and I was about to break the surface when I was stopped. Something was wrapped around my foot. I kicked and kicked trying to get free, but it would not budge. My face just inches from the surface, but I could not breathe. I started to panic. My vision faded.

“Someone, someone save my grandson!”

☘ ☘ ☘

Two families were waiting in a hospital room waiting for the doctor to return. Naoki's drowning accident caused panic to spread amongst the campers. The object wrapped around his leg was a discarded fishing net, possibly lost from a drunken fisherman. If not for a nearby ambulance, which had arrived for a separate incident, there was little chance for survival. He was rushed to a nearby hospital and delivered to the emergency room. Hours passed before the doctor came to speak with the family.

“How long was the child submerged?”

“About three minutes...”

“I see,” the doctor pondered. “With drowning cases, prolonged lengths of time prove detrimental to the cognitive capabilities to the child's brain. We will need to keep the patient here to monitor any issue that might be present due to damage in different areas in the brain.”

“Brain damage?”

“Yes, the MRI and CT scans show minimal damage, but it may affect his motor control, memory, speech, and other functions. We will need to wait for the patient to awaken to find out the extent of the damage.”

A week passed.

☘ ☘ ☘

“He's awake! Nao-chan's awake!”

I heard Honoka's voice yelling. My eyes opened and I could see people gathering around me. Doctors, nurses, my grandparents and Honoka's family. Questions were asked of me. Tests were performed on me. After another week of this I could finally go back home. Honoka cried and kept apologizing for what had happened.

“I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have made you look for treasure.”

“What happened to the one I found?”

“Huh? It got thrown away, it was a fishing lure. Papa was angry because people keep littering the lake and that wouldn't have happened to you if they cleaned up after themselves.”

“Oh...”

“Nao-chan, promise me that that won't happen again. I don't want to see you in a hospital bed again. You wouldn't wake up and it was scary.”

“Okay, I promise, but only if you keep your promise too.”

“What promise?”

“That we would get married when we grow up.”

“Married?… Un, okay. Promise.”

☘ ☘ ☘

『High Servant's Quarters』

“… And? What happened to this girl?” Alicia asked with a not happen tone.

“A couple of years later, her dad got a new job and she had to move. It was the last I saw of her. A couple years after that, after my grandparents passed, I moved too and enrolled in our school system. I was given my diagnosis and was brought in to the clinical studies. I moved back to America for my surgery and when I transferred into school that's when we met.”

We both stayed silent for awhile.

“Did you love her?”

“Hm? Not really. At least I don’t think I did.”

“Okay. Let's go take a bath. We also need to pee so we don’t get a UTI.”

We both struggled getting up and walking to the bathroom. The both of us were quite sore and had to be supported by our servants.

“We… we ruined the sheets. It looks like a murder took place.”

After cleaning up we both sat in the tub. The hot water helped to relax our sore muscles.

“How's your progress with the princess?”

“Meaning?”

“How close are you to sleeping with her?”

“I’m not interested.”

“Doesn't matter, it's a good idea to have her fall in love with you. Having a person of power in your pocket will be beneficial to your plans. You might even get some secrets out of her.”

“As if I can just get her to fall in love with me.”

“Don't forget to sleep with Saya, Illyria too. Onii-chan obviously likes the both of them.”

After our bath Alicia went back to sleep. I went to join Veronica in the office to continue our research. The other day when the Grimoire had completed synthesizing my rewards I hastily brushed them aside to deal with later.

I found my small ruler in my school supplies and measured one of the bronze colored orichalcum plates. 15cm x 9cm x 4mm. About the size of a thick index card. A bit of hindsight, I should have taken pictures of the appraisal plate the princess had me use. Maybe I can get her to borrow it once more.

There were one hundred and ten magic stones that were synthesized. I had to copy some of them to identify what each stone was.

「Celerity Stone」 creates a small time dilation field. Light green color with white streaks. Fifty-four minus one.

「Amplifier Stone」 intensifies spells or magic stones. Gold color. Fifty-one minus one.

「Soothe Stone」 produces a calming effect on contact. Pink color. One minus one.

「Rage Stone」 produces a frenzy effect if touched. Blood red color. Two minus one.

The last two were one 「Water Stone」 and one 「Dye Stone」. The Encyclopedia finally became useful by giving me these descriptions of each stone. I will leave 「Celerity Stone」 to Veronica to research while I continued my work with the magic chest. All I need to do is take measurements for the metal bits to fasten the panels together then work the magic stones in. While I was doing so Veronica asked me a question.

“Hey, so how is your progress on that quest going?”

“Which one, the grand one with the oss curse thing?”

“Yeah that one. Find anything out on it?”

“Tried to find something in the library, but that place is as organized as this room. They don’t use the Dewey Decimal System and it's mostly filled with useless books so it's pretty difficult to find anything useful. Although, the princess seems to have organized her favorite story books on one shelf. Pretty annoying.”

“Hm, what about the shop?”

“The shop? The quest said that there wasn't a cure and that I had to invent one. It would be pretty silly if I could just buy one in the shop.”

I took my Grimoire and checked the shop using different variations of search words for a cure.

“Yup, nothing, nothing and also nothing. Only an idiot would think that an incurable deadly disease could be cured in a couple of weeks.”

“True, that would be pretty silly. If the people of this world can't cure it, how can we?”

“Right?”

I mused about my suspicion of what the oss curse really was. Considering the pain I feel in the mornings and the odd feeling in my neck and head, it might be connected somehow. While my attention was focused on this there was a knock on the office door. Veronica and I listened as Saya spoke.

“Master, there is a visitor at the door.”

We put our Grimoires away and I opened the door. Saya guided me to the front door and I saw a servant waiting outside.

“Greetings Dominum, this one has been given a message to deliver by my master, Chad Winters.”

“… Who?”

“This one's master is one of the eleven summoned. Would Dominum wish to accept the message?”

“Oh, sure. Go ahead.”

“The summoned one, Emily Habst, wishes for the presence of each summoned for a meeting.”

I sighed, I really did not feel like dealing with them.

“We're quite busy, when and why do they want to meet?”

“No appointment has been set and this one does not know the contents of the topic. Domina simply requested an answer of attendance to be given.”

I looked back into the apartment at Veronica, she only gave a shrug. If we went, Alicia might attack Zoe. Whatever, we can figure it out later.

“Fine, tell her we accept. Give the date of the meeting to my servant Saya.”

“Understood.” she bowed then left.

Returning to the office, I went to finish the measuring of the chest. Once that task was done the panels were placed in a large cloth bag.

“I'm going to visit the workshop, need anything?”

“Hmm, a still would be nice. I would be able to make larger batches of potions.”

“A still? Hm, we could make whiskey with it also. Alright, I’m off.”

“Have fun~.”

At the palace workshop I made my commission for the chest. It would be held together with copper, internally reinforced with steel and lined with durable leather. There was an issue with the measurements as they used a different system. I had to spend time converting the measurements for the workers to understand.

I also commissioned for a large still, about the size of a barrel. An actual barrel was used to give a frame of reference and sketches were used for the tubing. That size should be about five times larger than the retort that Veronica was currently using. It would still use the retort shape with a single tube as a condenser.

The armor that I designed for the workers was still being worked on. Measurements of my body were retaken to reconfirm the size and shape. Last thing I wanted to do here was to learn the methods of various smithing. Thanks to 「Viseremancy」 I was able to understand the different methods used. It also helped that I had them describe what the worker was doing. A few ingots of copper and iron was acquired to take home. I wanted to try some experiments with electric magic.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Royal Library』

I was fed up with being unable to find anything in here. So I proposed to the princess that we organize the whole library. The princess, her servant, another two servants, Saya and I started putting everything in order. Hopefully I would be able to find something useful.

“Any word on the appraisal plate? I'm curious as to how it works.”

“About that, I have spoken to the magic instructor. If you agree to meet with him he will teach you how to construct one, but it is not possible to spare any orichalcum.”

“Sure, fine. We can meet here I suppose.”

“I will let him know.”

☘ ☘ ☘

『S-Day +30』

『High Servant's Quarters』

I wanted to craft another magic bag, but this one would be sewn into both of my pants pocket. It only took a couple of hours to complete. Six magic stones instead of nine for each set made enchanting easier. One removed 「Mana Stone」 and two removed 「Distortion Stones」 made the set fit comfortably. This made each pocket hold twenty tiles instead of forty. A few tests of 「Amplifier Stones」 resulted in a doubling capacity of tiles, it would not work on the small scale of my magic pocket, but for the magic chest it would be wonderfully expanded. Now I would just need to be wary of potential pickpockets.

One of my problems with my magic bag construction was solved. The lamp that Saya had brought in uses an activation method of turning the 「Mana Stone」 on and off. Feeding it just a bit of my own mana triggers the activation, it was a simple thing I had overlooked. With this, I will not have to worry about poorly timed lockouts.

The chest held a dimension of 30cm x 30cm x 60cm. Two hundred and twenty-five magic stones can fit on each end and four hundred and fifty magic stones will fit on the bottom and rear of the chest, a total of one thousand and three hundred and fifty magic stones. The front was left empty so that it could be removed to allow larger objects to be placed within.

A mixture of 「Distortion Stone」, 「Mana Stone」, 「Charge Stone」, 「Anchor Stone」, 「Amplifier Stone」and 「Float Stone」 will be used. The bottom of the chest will contain two trap doors, one for the activation of the array and the other for the distortion integration.

Enchanting all of this is going to be a nightmare, I should try testing if stamping can be a thing for copy and paste enchantment.

I could really use some coffee...

☘ ☘ ☘

『Floating Island – Angerona's Villa』

Three women were observing a visual display which showed Naoki Kuroba's current activities.

“Are you jealous little girl, now that he has slept with the other one?” said the older woman trying to ruffle the younger one.

“I am not Invidia, I hold no such notions. That child can lay with whichever woman he pleases.” replied the younger girl unperturbed.

“Well isn't that good since it seems his lover is attempting to establish for him a harem. Are you perhaps considering joining their ranks? Although I am unsure if he is aroused by the idea of fucking a little girl.” the older woman trying to irritate the younger one.

“Hmph, your incitements will do nothing on me. I know all too well how you work. Old hag.” the young girl bit back.

Angerona watched as these two bickered with one another. A smile on her face. She turned her attention back on the display observing the young man work.

“Since the two of you are quite obsessed with him, why not give your blessing? While you're at it, that girl beside him and his lover are both summoned, we can give them our blessings as well.”

Both women stopped their bickering and turned their attention toward Angerona.

“Hmph, I have no interest in that child.”

“No interest? Yet you have spent the most time watching him. You did not move at all as you watched him fucking his lover. Give it up little girl, he fascinates you just as he fascinates me. I’ll agree to give them my blessings.”

“...Fine.” the young girl reluctantly agreed.

All three returned their attention to the display observing their subject with rapt interest.

“By the way, has he discovered the use of 「Conversion」?” asked Angerona.

“Nope, at least I haven't seen him do so. Will you communicate with him again?” replied the young girl.

“My mana pool is nearly empty to communicate and placing blessings will put me at my limit, but you could always speak with him. Well, it is up to you if you want to tell him or not. Now then, shall we begin?”

*knock knock knock*

Before the three goddesses could begin casting their blessing spell there was a knock at the door.

“Must I always be interrupted?!” Angerona spat with bitterness.

All three ceased their casting. Angerona rose from her seat and moved toward the front door with great annoyance. She wondered who would even bother coming this way. As she opened the door she was met by a familiar man.

“Hi and hello Angie, now, before you say anything I know we had our… differences, but I come here with an olive branch. Um okay, I mean that metaphorically. I have no olive branch. They're not common in this area. You should really put an olive tree on your island. It would really spruce up the place.”

“Hermes… what in the absolute fuck do you want? And stop babbling, you always give me a headache with that.”

“I'm not Hermes… I’m… look it doesn't matter. I am here to deliver a message. Okay? Don't shoot the messenger.”

“Would you just say it already?!” Angerona was at her wits end.

“Okay okay, the message is from Fortuna. *ahem* 'You have been quite naughty involving yourself with that summoned. I will be visiting you very soon.'”

“Fortuna? How would she even know? And why would she even be interested?”

“Sorry, no idea, I would like to know as well.”

“How long until she arrives?” she was nervous of having to deal with Fortuna, but resolved herself.

“Again, no idea. Anywhere between now and in a few years. My and her definition of 'soon' obviously varies.”

“Fine. Understood. Now leave.”

“That's good. Now that that's out of the way, how about I come in and eat some food. Traveling all this way was quite exhaust-”

Angerona slammed the door in his face and returned to the main room.

“Uh, Angie? Hello? I’m starving. Okay, I’ll, uh, I’ll take some food from your garden. Don't forget about putting in an olive tree. Got it? O-live-tree.”

“Who was that?” asked the older woman.

“Mercury delivering a message. Fortuna will be visiting.”

“That old hag?!” screamed the young girl. “For what reason?! I hate that worn out wrinkly old bitch, always stealing my favors! I am the true goddess of fortune and good luck! She is just a sadistic luck eater!”

“Should we continue or postpone?” sighed Angerona.

☘ ☘ ☘

『S-Day +31』

『High Servant's Quarters』

I managed to get two stamps done, one for 「Mana Stone」 and one for 「Distortion Stone」. After the ones for 「Anchor Stone」 and 「Charge Stone」 are done I will be able to test if stamp enchantment is possible. As I was working there was a knock at the door. It was Saya.

“Master, a messenger from the summoned has arrived. They wish to meet in two days.”

“Understood, if you see Alicia let her know as well.”

“Yes master.”

I continued my work the rest of the day undisturbed.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Royal Library』

“Salve young man, I have been waiting for this day for some time.”

A middle age looking man greeted me as I entered the library. The princess sat beside him greeted me as well.

“Salve, you are?”

“Septimus Menenius, magic instructor of the 「Mage's Guild」 working as instructor for the summoned.”

We spoke at length into the night. He was quite impressed with my ability to use 「Proficiomancy」 to learn other types of magecraft with ease and with little guidance. He also revealed the others magecraft, though I already knew of Vincent's magecraft, I learned there were other unique types. I wrote down every detail I could so I would be able to attempt learning the ones I have not already learned.

Finally the instructor taught me what I needed to know about appraisal plates and orichalcum. On Earth, orichalcum was a real metal, an alloy of copper, zinc and trace amounts of nickel or other metals. Just as copper and other metals are electrically conductive, fantasy orichalcum is magically conductive. As it accepts enchantments easily it is commonly used in appraisal plates, but have also been used in high level magic tools, magic weapons and magic armor.

“Do the weapons and armor contain spells or does it simply utilize whatever magic stone is attached?”

“High level weapons and armor are able to produce spells that allow it to do various things, but such items are difficult to create. Most diviners use staves and scepters with 「Mana Stones」 which allow them to increase their casting capabilities.”

Casting capabilities, huh? Maybe I can make something like a battery to increase my mana storing capabilities.

We ended the discussions late into the night, quarter past 1am. The princess was already sleeping on the couch/sofa thing with her servant watching over her. I held Saya's hand as we walked back to the apartment.

Magecraft: Fortimancy | Category: Alteration | Information: Warrior Mage – User is able to strengthen one's body and target objects.

Magecraft: Ligaremancy | Category: Domination | Information: Binding Mage – User is able to control movements of target.

Magecraft: Sanomancy | Category: Protection | Information: Healing Mage – User is able to heal wounds and illnesses.

Magecraft: Telumancy | Category: Domination | Information: Battle Mage – User is able to gain increased learning of weapons and objects.

Magecraft: Protegomancy | Category: Protection | Information: Shield Mage – User is able to project barriers to inhibit attacks and movements.

Though I am iffy about learning healing magic I will try to learn those other magecraft. 「Telumancy」 and 「Protegomancy」 sound the most useful to me.

☘ ☘ ☘

『S-Day +32』

『High Servant's Quarters』

The appraisal plate was a success and on the first try.

“Too bad you wasted two of them.” Veronica said with a lying voice.

“Shh, first try.” I said, causing her to roll her eyes.

The appraisal plate identified objects placed on it. This way I would not have to rely on the Grimoire to find out what an object is. It was unfortunate that I did not know the enchantment for identifying a persons information, it was probably a trade secret of the 「Mage's Guild」. Now that I know how to use 「Appraisal Stones」 I can add it to the magic chest prototype. With my last stamps complete I can also test stamp enchantments and an appraised magic bag.

Boom, done. What took three hours of work now took one. Sewing the extra leather was the lengthiest part of the magic bag crafting. The same 3×3 grid was used just for consistency’s sake.

「Distortion Stone」

「Amplifier Stone」

「Distortion Stone」

「Mana Stone」

「Mana Stone」

「Mana Stone」

「Appraisal Stone」

「Anchor Stone」

「Charge Stone」

This set up provided forty tiles of usable space. I would still need to test the limits of 「Amplifier Stone」, but so far it confirmed small scale doubling of 「Distortion Stone」. Now to test the appraisal capabilities of the bag. I placed a gold coin into a tile and checked.

1 × Gold Aureus Coin

(Empty)

(Empty)

(Empty)

(Empty)

(Empty)

(Empty)

(Empty)

(Empty)

“Fuck yeah, I am amazing!”

I handed the bag to Veronica to confirm how awesome I am.

“God damn that is so cool. Once you finish the magic chest we can clear up a lot of space.”

“Hell yeah, but it's getting late, I have to go to the library and flirt with the princess.”

“Kay~. Have fun.”

I'm starving. I can just have Saya bring me something in the palace.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Royal Library』

The princess was engrossed in her storybook while I was busy continuing the organization of the books. I had managed to find a handful of interesting topics, but none of the ones I wanted. I gave up for today and sat down with a book about the six great fortresses of the empire. If I remember correctly, Saya mentioned something about one of them being a mining city and the magic stone dealer had said that most magic stones were mined.

An hour or so passed when the princess put down her book. She looked over at me with a hesitant gaze.

“Naoki, can I ask you something?”

“Sure, what?”

“What is it like… with your wife?”

Wife? Oh right.

“What is what like?”

“Do I really have to say it? Sex. What is sex like?”

“You've never?”

“No, my eldest brother died while I was still young and my second brother was more interested in his research than me. So I have never taken a lover. The girls, Zoe and Emily, always talk to me about it. Always trying to get me to share their bed, but I do not like their… demeanor. I feel as if they want to use me as if I was some trophy.”

“From what I have been told, those two are notorious for sleeping with anyone to stir up drama. Be careful around them.”

“Thank you for your concern. So what does it feel like?”

“Amazing. The most intimate pleasure one can share with another person.”

“The person father will choose as my husband, I do not know if he will share that intimacy with me or if he will only be interested in taking the throne and having me bear an heir to cement his position.”

I looked at her unsure of what she was getting at.

“So what is it that you want? Do you want to take me as your lover or perhaps someone to practice such intimacy with?”

“It would be scandalous if I were found to be sleeping with a summoned. If we were to have such a relationship… would you keep it secret?”

Holy shit is this really happening?

“Alicia would need to know, she would be angry if I keep it a secret from her. Aside from her, no one needs to know.”

“Okay.”

I put my book down and moved to sit next to her. We kissed, performed oral on each other and finally slept together. After resting I checked my phone, it was past 2am. Before leaving, her servant stopped me.

“Dominum, please take this with you. When you are finished with it, please return it. It is the princesses most cherished story book. You may understand her if you read it.” she handed me a thin book.

“Understood.”

We separated and left to our respective homes.

I cannot believe I just had sex with an actual princess.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Lower Noble District – Tavern』

Two men sat at a table eating food and drinking wine. The combat instructor and the magic instructor for the summoned. Both were sharing stories of their experiences with each summoned. The combat instructor impressed by the combat capabilities of a few of the summoned whilst the magic instructor spoke highly of the magic oriented capabilities of the summoned.

“I met the 「Proficiomancer」 the other night, amazing individual. He took an interest in 「Runomancy」 and had me teach him how to create an appraisal plate.”

“That's the one that did that thing to Dentus right?”

“The same, he's very analytical, methodical. Focuses on one thing then quickly moves on to the next. He understands everything I told him or at least most of it.”

“I believe the summoned were scholars.”

“So the princess says.”

“There were two more missing, right? Did you meet with them?”

“No, the princess claims they are with the 「Proficiomancer」 and remain in hiding. Although, there were talks of a strange girl traveling throughout the inner districts meeting with various families and what not.”

“They must be in awe being able to visit an empire so grand to want to explore their new surroundings. I wonder what their world is like.”

“Supposedly tribal, one of them is rumored to be a clan head. Though it is hard to understand what the say.”

“It's still impressive. In a single month they have learned to speak our language so fluently.”

“Yes, but...”

“But?”

“Their accent, the way they speak. It sounds as if they were sucking cock.”

Both men laughed and continued their drinking.

☘ ☘ ☘

『S-Day +33』

『Summoned Quarters』

We were lead to one of the rooms of our classmates by one of their servants. Alicia and Veronica had little interest in the meeting, but decided to go along with it anyway. We sent our servants on different errands, if anything happened at the meeting they would not be in the way.

As we entered one room we were met with eight of our classmates already sitting at a large table. Each one was busy eating a meal and conversing with one another. When they noticed our arrival they ceased their activity and waited for us to sit. Alicia glared at Zoe, Chad glared at me, I glared at the cup of 'wine' on the table.

“So, what is this meeting about? I already told the servant that we were busy.” I asked.

I sniffed at the cup of wine that was placed in front of me. The vinegared smell stung my nose. It was too early in the morning for wine. I pushed the cup aside.

“Busy with what, hiding like cowardly pieces of shits?” the obvious steroid abuser said.

“Chad stop.” the blonde girl said.

I held Alicia back. While he continued his spiel.

“Where the hell have you even been anyway? We're busy training while you're hiding away doing nothing. You have a fucking duty to these people to get your shit together and fight.”

“My… duty. I have no duty to these primitive monkeys. Who would be stupid enough to fight for these 'people'.”

“There's nothing stupid about it, asshole. They are very generous. They gave us all the food we can eat, all the girls we can fuck and all the training to be something amazing. They gave us paradise! Look at this shit man.” he began spawning a 《Fireball》 and held it in his hand.

“We're gods here, the people worship us.” one of the lackeys said.

“You actually like living in this primitive hell hole? You know they kidnapped us, right? And you're just going to go along with their plan of using us for their own gain. They don't give a shit about us, they just want our power. Is this some kind of Stockholm Syndrome? You're just a weak little slave to them.”

“This isn't the only thing I can do. I am stronger now, stronger than you. I can kick your ass easy.”

“No you can't. I kicked your ass before and I can kick your ass now, glass jaw.”

“Man, fuck you! How the fuck are you even still alive? Shouldn't you be dead already, cancer boy?”

Everyone was silent. Alicia was angry, Veronica was angry, the others were confused at his words.

“Wait wait wait, you knew that I am terminal and decided that, what, it would be a good idea to try and bully me? Which, by the way, you failed at. Are you some kind of retard or something?”

“Fuck you.”

“No, fuck yourself. What the hell is your god damn problem anyway? Why are you so obsessed with me? Are you in love with me or something and jealous because I’m with Alicia? Well, sorry kid, but I don't swing that way.”

“I fucking hate everything about you...”

“And? Get over yourself. No one cares about your stupid little problems. You're nothing important.”

Somehow steroid face calmed down.

“Of course I’m not important. Back on earth, it was all about my older brother. My parents loved him. He was the perfect son. Perfect grades, sports trophies, got any girl he wanted. Everyone loved him and here I was not being able to compare. 'Why aren't you like your brother Chad?', 'Why can't you do better?'

“Nothing I did was ever good enough. I was never good enough. Always being compared to him. Always just a disappointment. Then last year I joined the wrestling team and the coach made me use steroids. I had no choice, but I got stronger. Football, soccer, rugby. I became the best in the school.” he had a calmed look on his face as if a weight had been lifted.

“… That's it? The fuck does any of that have to do with me? Stupid…”

“Naoki, stop. Chad has been through a lot. This world… it has been healing him, don't take this away from him.” said the blonde girl.

“Shut up blondie, he hasn't been through shit. Oh my god how I wish I could have his petty little problems. You want some exposition? Okay I will give you a real sob story. A nice little tale of 'woe is me'.

“Once, when I was a boy my parents took my to visit my grandparents living in Japan. Then they abandoned me. They just never showed up. So for years I had to live in a completely different culture in the middle of nowhere. The friends I made were few because I was never a 'real' Japanese, only an American knockoff.”

“No one gives a sh-” one of the lackeys tried to interrupt, but Alicia spawned a dagger close to his neck.

“Don't interrupt him.” Alicia gave a death glare to everyone of the others.

“R-right, N-Naoki, go ahead.” said the blonde one.

“Where was I? Oh right, then one day I drowned. Super fun, you should try it. I was dead, literally dead for 3 minutes. Recovering from that was just as fun. Then a few years passed and my only friend back then left, then my grandparents died one at a time. I had to pick the bones from their ashes to bury them.

“Now I was alone, but got roped in to our nine-school system and made new friends. Hooray… but even more fun was finding out I have had cancer growing in me for years. Waking up every day feeling like your head is about to burst, the choking feeling in your neck as the cancer destroys every healthy cell in my body.

“when I came back to America I sat in a hospital bed for three months and watched as eight people I had become friends with die one at a time. Have you ever had a doctor tell you 'good news, the treatment is working, but you're still going to die.'? For years I have had to listen to robotic doctors telling me that with uncaring faces. Then when I decide to find my own peace, to enjoy what little I had left, this piece of shit starts causing me trouble. For no reason. He just shows up out of nowhere and acts like some poorly written character. And when the chance came when I could blow my brains out and finally get some peace I get kidnapped into this shitty world. So, blondie, how was that for sob stories?”

“… I have healing magic. I can-”

“Nothing can heal me!”

“So just kill yourself then.” said the guy who cries about his older brother.

“With pleasure, once I am back on earth. We're trying to find a way back to earth where we belong. And thanks to you, I won't bother helping you go back even if you beg me. If you want to play soldier and die for these barbarians like the slaves you are, fine, go and have your fun. Just stay out of our way.”

“...”

With this, we formed our own little factions and were to go our own separate ways. As long as we did not have to be involved in their affairs and they in ours all the better. I did not need them interfering with my plans.

The three of us stood up and left. I placed both my hands on Alicia's and Veronica's ass just to rub it in their faces.

“Naoki, we're out of line of sight.” Veronica said to me.

“Uh-huh.”

“You can let go of my butt.”

“Mm, nah.”

She slapped my hand away while Alicia giggled at our exchange.

“Was everything you said back there true?” Veronica asked.

“Yep, all of it.”

“Was it a good idea for this to have happened?”

I pulled out a blood red magic stone and held it in my hand.

“If I am right about what the meeting was supposed to be about then they are in there right now fighting or arguing. At the very least all their attention will be directed at each other and not us. And if they do decide to fight against us, they won't be united. What's his name totally played the way I expected him to. Didn't even have to use this magic stone.”

“If you think it was a good idea then I’m okay with it.”

“I'm going to visit the smithy, what are you two going to do?”

“I'll come with.”

“Same.”

We three went straight to the smithworks to check on the process of our orders. As we arrived we were greeted by one of the redsmiths.

“Ah, you're here. The still you wanted is complete. It will be a few more days for the chest you ordered, however, as it is a bit more intricate according to your specifications.”

Veronica and I examined the copper still, taking it apart and checking the interior. The construction was well made and sturdy with the edges dulled to prevent injuries to the user. I turned to the worker.

“It's well made, good work. Send a worker to bring it along.”

“Will do. Will there be anything else?”

“I would like to commission another one, identical to this. Prioritize the chest though.”

“Understood.”

With this done, we returned to the apartment.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Summoned Quarters』

“Jesus fucking Christ Chadwick, what the shit was that all about?!” Emily was unhappy with how things turned out and directed her anger on the instigator.

“It's fine now isn't it? Now we don't have to deal with them.” Chad replied with an uncaring tone.

“The whole fucking point of this meeting was to get them to join us! What the fuck happened to our deal? Huh?! What about Zoe's?! Did you lie to us just so you could spite them?”

“We don't need their help.”

“You saw what Alicia did, she had a dagger pulled out of thin air before Liam could even put up a barrier! God, she was ready to slit his throat.”

“He'll live, come on let's go. We can get something more to eat then go to training.”

“Chadwick… I am done with you. You aren't our leader, you no longer have any say in what we do. You don't speak for us and because of your little pissing contest we just made very strong enemies. I’m cutting you off, Zoe too. We're done with you.”

“And what the fuck does that mean?”

“All of you, your servants are no longer allowed to fuck Chad. Instruct them to protect themselves if he ever tries to lay a finger on them. Got it?”

Vincent, Isaac and Riley agreed without hesitation while Liam and Sam had trouble agreeing to Emily's terms. Zoe had remained quiet throughout the whole meeting, but gave a muffled ascent to Emily's decision.

“If you cannot decide then I will decide for you. If I can't trust the two of you then you can join Chad. We're fucking done here.”

The group split up and left the room leaving the three men alone.

☘ ☘ ☘

『High Servant's Quarters』

“Onii-chan, let's change positions. I want to be on top.”

Alicia straddled my hips and began to grind against me. My hands on her hips, guiding her movements. She arched her back as she reached orgasm, my own following shortly after. She collapsed atop me with ragged breaths. As I attempted to move her to the side she stopped me.

“No, stay inside me.”

“It doesn't hurt anymore?”

“Nope, Saya healed me. So you can be as rough as you want next time.” we lay like this for some time breathing each other in.

As we returned to the apartment, Veronica and I got started working on the still. 「Heat Stones」 were used as the heating element beneath the still. Only a small amount of magic stones were required to get the still to be brought at a low boil. A couple of hours were spent on this before Alicia dragged me to the bedroom.

“You came home late, how was the princess?” Alicia whispered into my ear.

“Surprisingly easy to sleep with.”

“Only because it was with you. I know the others kept trying to sleep with her, but she kept rejecting them.”

“She told me. Also, her servant gave me something, a book. Said something about understanding her more or something.”

“What kind?”

“Probably a fairytale. It's on the nightstand.”

She removed herself from me and reached for the book. After settling into my left side where she was accustomed to, she passed me the book.

“There's still time before you have to go to the library right? Read it to me.”

“Sure, okay. Once upon a time… it actually says 'once upon a time'.”

Once upon a time there were two kingdoms at war. So long had they been at war that both sides had forgotten what had caused their strife. Yada yada yada… skirmishes and battles occurred every month. Tens of thousands die each year due to the war and famine brought about by war. The prince from one kingdom and the princess from the other became of age and began to lead their armies against one another.

It was soon discovered that both wielded mithril weapons. As the only two to wield such a weapon, they were both lead to each other to fight. As the years passed every battle was decided on the prince and princesses fight, each one unyielding. Constant use of single combat to determine the outcome of battle had caused the two to lead into talks and diplomacy. Each meeting always unresolved and leaving both parties bitter. Each battle always causing the two to come into contact.

As more time passed and more meetings became common, almost a weekly affair, soon enough it had indeed become an affair. As the tension between the two increased it became inevitable that they would conduct meetings late into the night. The story goes into great length of their… copulation. His length and girth, her wetness and tightness. Their moans and…

“Yeah, this is pretty much porn already.”

“Keep reading…”

The princess eventually becomes pregnant and the two kingdoms ended their war. When she gave birth, it was decided the prince and princess would marry. They had more children and as they grew older, their first son was crowned king. The new king declared that both kingdoms would unify under a single banner. Peace lasted for many hundreds of years.

“Isn't your sword mithril?”

“Yup and the princess has a mithril blade as well.”

“Aww, isn't she cute? She's seeing you as one of the book's characters. Good job on nailing the princess, onii-chan!”

☘ ☘ ☘

『Royal Library』

The princess and I laid on the couch together having finished having sex. When I had entered the library I was greeted by her servant. After I returned the book she had lent me she urged me to meet with the princess. Once the princess saw me, she got up from the couch and kissed me pulling me down onto the couch with her.

“You're not sore? Alicia was sore after her first time.”

“No, not at all. Salina here is able to use healing magic. I want to reiterate that I have no romantic feelings for you, I am just curious about what this like.” she said as she continued kissing me.

“Uh-huh, no romantic feelings. If you say so.”

“I say so.”

As we continued laying on the couch I began to stroke her hair. I took notice of the coloring being brunette that faded to purple. Many people seem to have such multi-tonal hair coloring. Saya had black to blue, Illyria had green to seafoam green, cassia had yellow to red hair, oppai healer had brunette to pink and even the princesses servant had silver to red hair. I asked her about it.

“Yes, it's a very common sight to see. In fact you and the other summoned are a curiosity as to why yours are a single color.”

Her servant mixed a drink and handed it to the princess. She made a sour face as she drank it down.

“What was that that you drank just now?”

“Silphium extract mixed in water. I told you already that it would cause a scandal if I were found to be having relations with a summoned, right?”

Silphium? Why does that sound familiar?

“Right.”

“Well, it would be even more scandalous if it were known that I had become pregnant without taking a husband. Hench the silphium.”

“I see. That makes sense. And silphium is...”

“An abortifacient. It ceases pregnancies from taking root.”

Oh fuck, I've been finishing inside Alicia.

“Why did you panic just now? Did you want me to bear your child? Well, too bad.” she said with a smug face.

“No, not having a child is a good idea.”

We began to dress so we could continue our routine. However, after dressing she spoke once more. She had a serious look on her face as she did so.

“Naoki, I have something important to tell you.”

“Go ahead.” I gave her my full attention.

“The other day when I took your appraisal, there was more to it than what you saw. There were two things you should know. The first is you have received a blessing from Angerona, she is a goddess which alleviates anguish of those who worship her. This is good news, this blessing. However...”

“However?” I already knew what she was going to say.

“The second thing. Naoki, you have what is called the Oss Curse.”

'Her words shocked me' is what I feigned.

“The Oss Curse is an affliction that causes death without a doubt. I do not know the exact method the cursed one dies, but it involves animals. When a dog or pig or bull come in contact with a cursed one they become drawn in to that person. Once that happens the Oss Curse 'blooms' and captures the animal, turn that person into an ossian. A dog becomes a Canioss, a pig becomes Porcoss and a bull becomes a Tauross.

“Normally, when it is found that one is afflicted with the Oss Curse they are put to death or exiled. As you are a summoned, doing either would be dangerous. I don't know what father would do, I don't know what the senate would do, but I want you to know that I will not reveal this fact to anyone else. I will keep your secret.”

This was good, having her reveal this to me, having her start this topic. If I had requested information about the Oss Curse it would be suspicious as to how I learned of such a thing. If I requested information about ossians then that would be admission to learn more about the enemy of the empire which could be spun as my wanting to fight against the ossians. As she was the one to start this I can spin it as mere curiosity and her keeping it a secret is even better. Alicia was right, sleeping with the princess was a good idea.

“Tell me, Minervina, everything about the Oss Curse and the ossians. I have heard people in town speak of a tauross, what exactly is it, this bull and human hybrid?”

It's not a minotaur is it?

“It is as you say, the consolidation of man and bull. They become not human, but animal. Their flesh can be consumed and is quite favored amongst all classes of the empire. It has the appearance of a bipedal bull, hooves for feet, arms and chest of a man and bull's head.”

So a minotaur then?

“So a minotaur then?”

“Minotaur? How do you know that word?” she tilted her head in confusion.

“Is there a problem?”

“It is from the language of the northern barbarians. It is also the language of the Hykin Ossians.”

“And what are the Hykins?”

“I have never met any as they are forbidden within the seven cities with the exception of Vaticano, but beyond that they are quite popular as slaves. It is said they have the appearance of humans with some physical attributes of animals, furry ears and tails and such.”

She told me more. Lokins were the common ossians such as minotaurs, centaurs and orcs. Goblins would turn into orkoss or orcs, trolls into orgoss or ogres, cyclops into gigantoss or giants. There were what could be described as kitsunes, werewolves, tengus, lamias, gorgons and all different types of mythological creatures all with their own 'ossian' name.

Mitkins were Lokins that had reached a higher intelligence level and have become able to speak, read and write, but still bear the appearance of Lokins. They have been seen as taking the commander positions in organized unit formations, whether it is on the field or within dungeons.

Hykins were the animal girls that everyone on earth is fascinated with, I suppose there are animal men as well. That means there were most likely catgirls that exist in this world and if there were catgirls and I manage to find a way back to earth I could enslave them and sell them in Japan. I would become a billionaire overnight.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Outskirts of Valemarch』

“Achoo!”

“What is it daughter, are you falling ill?”

“Uh, no father, it must be the dust from the nearby flower fields.”

“I see, get some rest, we will be in Valemarch within a day.”

☘ ☘ ☘

『Royal Library』

“Minervina, is there a cure for the Oss Curse?” I already knew the answer, but I wanted to continue playing this off for more information.

“I'm sorry Naoki, but there is no cure.” she had a sad look in her eye.

“Then I would like everything there is to know about the Oss Curse and Ossians. Books are fine.”

“Of course, there is very few within the library, but I will send Salina to the 「Adventurer's Guild」 to acquire their encyclopedias on the matter.”

With this matter done for now I went to pick up the book I was reading last. It was the book about the fortresses that had me thinking about which one was the mining city. Stonequiet was the name of the fortress and it lay to the west of the empire at the foot of the mountains.

“Tell me about Stonequiet.” I asked Minervina.

“Stonequiet? Why do you ask?”

“I'm curious, I also want to find 「Alter Stones」. It could be the key to returning to my world.”

“I see, I will tell you what I know, but you can learn more about it from what you are reading. If you wish to locate more 「Alter Stones」 then perhaps you might be interested in Healingspring. Much of the mining is done there now.”

The fortresses of Stonequiet, Driftingscale and Ridgefall were lost around three or four hundred years ago due to the spread of the invasive Oakoo trees. It would start as a thicket or a grove that would appear overnight then within a month it would become a forest. Even as the local population attempted to control the spread of Oakoo it would be futile. If left for too long wild animals or ossians would take refuge within the wooded areas. As the population of animals and ossians grew, they became a threat to the people cutting down the trees. Fires could only offer a temporary respite from the growth.

Forests spread and even became jungles thanks to rivers and streams providing water for various flora to flourish. Attacks became relentless and workers slowly retreated. Overtime the fortress were lost. Barriers were eventually erected out of stone to limit the spread. This allowed Valemarch to survive, but the other three fortresses were eventually abandoned.

Stonequiet and Ridgefall had supplied the fledgling empire with massive amounts of stone and ore from the mountains and canyons, respectively. Overtime the mines eventually dried up and the inhabitants abandoned the two before the Oakoo spread. Once it did no one bothered to return.

“There are those within the senate that wish to reclaim the fortresses before the Ossians do, but they are few and low of influence. Many wish to concentrate on Pompeii and right now Valemarch has become the priority.”

“I see, thank you.”

The night ended and we kissed each other goodbye. Saya and I walked home. I have been noticing Saya pouting more frequently. I wonder why… no I know why, she wants me to sleep with her, I am sure. But I am exhausted. Another time, perhaps.

As we entered the bedroom Saya crawled into bed tired while I climbed atop Alicia. She was wearing her now usual nightly attire of my shirt and no panties.

“Alicia.”

She grumbled.

“Alicia, wake up.”

“Huh? What is it onii-chan? If you want to have sex with me go ahead. I told you you have free use whenever you want. Just let me sleep. Tired~…” she slurred with tired words.

“That's not it, are you on birth control?”

“Hm, birth control? No, of course not. Why?”

“I've been cumming inside you, you could get pregnant.”

“Mhm, can't wait.” she moved her hand down and started rubbing her stomach.

“No. I don't want a child.”

Alicia opened her eyes at my words.

“Well too bad, because I do.”

“No, it's too dangerous.”

“I'll take care of it. Protect it. You're able to live a little bit longer now so we need to have as much kids as we can.”

“We have enemies, what if it's used against us? What if I just end up dying anyway? Then I would be abandoning that kid like my parents abandoned me.”

“...So what then? If you die and I don't have your child then what? I don't want anyone else's child, only yours. So if you do die, how am I going to get pregnant?” she was angry. Her tone was calm, but angry.

A few minutes passed as I thought of a solution. It should be a good enough compromise.

“I can fill up some glass vials and you can put it in your bag. When we go back to earth you can get yourself pregnant as many times as you want. But how will it be when they don't have a father?”

“Then… live.”

☘ ☘ ☘

『S-Day +34』

『High Servant's Quarters』

“So a bit of hindsight thing...”

“Hm?”

Veronica and I were sitting in the office. She was busy with calculations for the new still while I was preparing the magic stones to be set into the magic chest. As I looked at the chest, it suddenly hit me that I was making it unnecessarily complicated.

“I realized I simply could have just put magic stones on the bottom of the chest instead of mimicking the Ice Box and Float Chest. Then cover the stones with a false bottom.”

“Oh.” she picked her head up and replied with a spaced out stare.

With four hundred and fifty magic stones instead of one thousand three hundred and fifty I had originally designed, it would be an easier prototype to make. It was fortunate I was focusing on the bottom panel to start as a base so my efforts were not wasted. The second prototype will simply use the chest I had commissioned at the smithy. The problem would be 「Mana Stones」 as the majority I had were the small rice size stones not the more useful two centimeter cube size.

“I need more money...”

“Yeah about that, if my calculations are right, I would be able to make twenty to thirty potions a day instead of the three I have been making, but…” Veronica hesitated.

“But? The materials for it are getting expensive.”

“Right, even if I made small batches instead it would still be a problem of running out of ingredients.”

“Have you had any success with potency? Less numerous, but more powerful?”

“I have some ideas, but I would need to go somewhere else for materials.”

“Take some money and go to the 「Merchant's Guild」, 「Apothecary's Guild」 and 「Alchemist's Guild」 and buy what you need. I will try and ramp up my soap production.”

She left to go change with Cassia following close behind while I went to the bedroom and started counting coins. I took ten thousand gold coins for Veronica and partitioned out ten pouches of one thousand coins. This way if someone steals a pouch she would not lose all of it. When she came back to the apartment I handed her the pouches and four of us left, with me heading next door and Saya downstairs.

As I walked into the apartment I could see the kid working hard on stirring the barrel of moromi, the chickpea and wheat mixture. Saya was in charge of paying him and I had the payout at one silver denarius per day of work. At ten bronze sesterces per denarius, only four or five sestertius is needed for plebs to survive each day. Apparently I was being pretty generous for paying a servant this much.

Once he was done with the stirring, I was set to teach him how to make soap. Saya came back with two more servants where I instructed that the two would work under the kid whose name I learned was Aster. Aster would act as the supervisor for the two and the two would be his assistants. They understood quickly what I wanted them to do and I had them working straight away. I would need to go to the smithy and speak with a carpenter to make a larger mold. I can just stop by there before meeting the princess in the library.

With all of this settled I went to get myself ready. This time, since I am running out of paper, I will be taking my laptop to record all the notes I have acquired.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Valemarch』

“Demosthenes, it is good you have returned, but you are late.” said a powerful looking man.

“We left as soon as we received your message… two months ago. Don't send mutts as they are slow. The lagomorphic races are more useful messengers.”

“They are busy with missives to and from Pompeii and you know well the path to Stonequiet is treacherous, the mutts have some use. Kassandra, you look well.” the powerful man turned his attention to the girl accompanying the man.

“Stratigos.” she bowed.

“Now give me your report.”

The two hundred man strong Tracking Corps had returned to Valemarch from Stonequiet. They brought with them captured jungle turtles and thousands of eggs. If hatched and trained, these turtles can become powerful beasts of burden or even siege turtles to tear down the walls of the empire. The Stratigos, or General, who commanded all military forces within Valemarch for the past five years greeted Demosthenes, Lochagos of the Tracking Corps as well as his daughter Kassandra, Dekaneas of the scouting squad. All three persons were Ossians of the Felinic race.

Lochagos Demosthenes gave his report regarding the failed mining operations. There were little to no usable minerals to bolster their forces. He gave reports regarding the poor quality rocky soil, but recommended the creation of forts within the fortress borders and the use of goblins and orkoss to log the trees down to form a path to the empire.

“It will be considered.” said the Stratigos.

“There is another matter that was recently discovered. There is a dungeon beneath the fortress. However, it is filled with daemonic mutts, single and double head variants. A few dozen local orkoss were killed so I had the entranced sealed.”

The Stratigos pondered this new development.

“A wise decision, it is not important right now. I have another task for your corps, our ships have discovered another fortress to the east of our location. Unfortunately, there is something wrong with the water and a handful of boats sank. I want the Tracking Corps to trek through the forest and observe the fortress. If you are able to capture it do so otherwise send a report of your findings. You will leave in one week, have your men rest and feast. There is many entertainment for your men as well.”

“Understood. What will become of Stonequiet?”

“I will send a horde of one thousand to reinforce the fortress and work the land. The oasis you discovered will be used for crops. If there is nothing else you are dismissed.”

Both, father and daughter, bowed and left the room. Demosthenes reported the new orders and the men dispersed.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Royal Library』

The still and the chest I had commissioned were completed and I had it sent to the apartment. Saya led the workers and returned after a short time. I was busy typing up notes from the different books I had found interesting into my laptop. The princess was beside me taking turns watching me work and reading her book. It was four hours of mindless droning before I could no longer take this tedious work.

“Fuck this already I need a break.”

I started browsing my hard drive for something to watch.

Hm? I wonder…

A though came to me. Since the princess lived in such a primitive world, what would happen if I showed her a video of contemporary life? I browsed not anime, but live action series I had. After a bit of browsing I picked one that had lots of good music, lots of action, lots of modern technology, lots of laughs and it was something I could translate fast enough for her. I began to play the video.

“Naoki, what is this?” she asked after a few minutes in.

“Keep watching, I’ll translate their words for you.”

The princess continued watching with wide eyes. Even after the video ended she held a surprised look. Seeing her break character was something I enjoyed. After some time she was able to compose herself closing her eyes in deep thought.

“Okay, I will do it. I will help you return home. I will discover what happened to brother's research. I will help you find 「Altar Stones」. In return… I want to visit your world.”

I looked at her with my best poker face, surprised that my plan worked even better than I had thought.

“Deal.”

Alicia was right, having the princess in my pocket would be very beneficial. However, if she ever finds out that I consider her father my enemy for what he did, I wonder what she would do then?

“Naoki.”

“Hm?”

“Come to my chambers tomorrow morning. We are giving the summoned a break from training so I will have tomorrow free. Also the 「Animancer」 will be able to meet with you as well as the encyclopedias you requested will be delivered. And…”

“And?”

“My bed is more comfortable than this couch…”

Minervina is cute when she blushes.

☘ ☘ ☘

『S-Day +35』

『Private Chambers of Minervina』

“Naoki, this is the 「Animancer」, his name is Nonus. This is the problem I spoke of before.”

The kid was even younger than the one I was employing. It is no wonder he has not yet understood his own magecraft. Fuck, so much for completing that quest.

“I will be taking him under my care as 「Animancy」 and 「Sentiomancy」 are closely related.”

“Uh-huh, understood.”

She then directed her servant to take the boy away. Giving him his own room and a servant to tend to him. She turned her attention back to me.

“The encyclopedias are here as well on loan from the 「Adventurer's Guild」.”

“Thank you, I will return it when I am done making copies.”

“So… this is my bed…”

I requested from one of her other servants for some olive oil. Since it was not long after Alicia and I had our morning routine I still needed time to recharge and besides, Minervina could afford new sheets. I climbed atop Minervina and explored her body just like our first time together. When her servant returned with the olive oil I went to work massaging every part of her body.

When I was finally able to I crawled between her legs and slid myself within Minervina.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Emperor's Chambers』

The Emperor, looking exhausted from the recent senatorial meetings, summoned a servant to his side.

“Bring Minervina here, I must know the state of the summoned.”

“Right away Emperor.”

The servant left leaving the Emperor alone in his office.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Private Chambers of Minervina』

“Naoki harder, oh Naoki, I’m almost there!”

Minervina's servant, Salina, came to the bedside and spoke to the princess.

“Princess, the Emperor's servant has arrived with a summons. You are to visit the Emperor right now.”

“Now of all times?! Just tell the messenger that I am getting dressed or something. Naoki, hurry.”

The thought of Minervina having to meet with that shitbag emperor while my cum was slowly dripping down her leg pushed me over the edge.

“Ah fuck, I’m cumming.”

We quickly separated and got as cleaned up as we possibly could. Towels were thrown around as we attempted to blot out enough oil off our bodies that we may look presentable.

“I have a lot of studying to do so we may not be able to meet tonight, but tomorrow.”

“Yes, tomorrow… if you would like, you can spend the night here tomorrow.”

I kissed her goodbye and we both left with me leaving some time after Minervina did. Before heading back to the apartment I wanted to pick up my commission from the woodworker. As I arrived at the smithy, I was notified that most of my commissions were completed and were ready to be delivered. Now all that was left was my armor.

☘ ☘ ☘

『Emperor's Chambers』

“Father, I have arrived.” Minervina looked at her father sitting at his desk fighting drowsiness. As her voice rang out, the emperor collected himself.

“Minervina, good, you are here. I want to know… is something wrong? You look disheveled.” the Emperor said as he took notice of his daughters state.

“Not at all father, I was merely preparing for a bath when I had received your summons.”

“Is that so? Sorry for rushing you here, the senators have been dragging the meetings too much that I rarely get any sleep. Tell me how the summoned are doing. Have their servants shown signs of pregnancy?”

“I believe two of them are showing signs. One belonging to the 「Runomancer」 and the other to the 「Telumancer」. The others would need time.”

“The sooner they bear children the sooner we can garner loyalty from the summoned. Having a child to protect will be their resolve for our fight against the Ossians. What of the 「Proficiomancer's」 faction, will there be a possibility of unification?”

Minervina thought for a moment for what her next words would be.

“Unlikely, there is growing animosity between the two groups. I believe assisting Naoki would benefit the empire greatly. We have misunderstood the summoned, they are much more intelligent than we had anticipated. They would be able to bring to us more fortunes from their knowledge than being simple soldiers.”

“Naoki? Is this the name of the 「Proficiomancer」? Daughter, do not grow too close to them. We need them to retake Valemarch and Pompeii. Once that happens we can use them against the senate. There is also talk of a Remius heir surviving, we cannot allow them to ingratiate themselves with the summoned.”

“Remius? The founders of the Empire? Then all the more reason to support Naoki! If we can make contact with their world we may gain powerful allies.”

“Or powerful enemies. We cannot fight against two worlds.”

Before the two could continue a servant came in with news.

“Emperor, it is time again for the senate meeting.”

“So it is, Minervina, continue guiding the summoned. I will continue to obfuscate their existence from the senate. They are not yet ready to be revealed.”

“Yes father.”

☘ ☘ ☘

『High Servant's Quarters』

My magic chest is ready. All I need to do is seal and secure the false bottom. A quick test showed two thousand inventory tiles and the 「Appraisal Stone」 worked to show the information as I place an item in. 「Float Stones」 countered the effects of numerous 「Anchor Stones」 used to stabilize the effects of 「Distortion Stones」. A last test confirmed that large objects could be placed in as I put the larger chest and a chair within the magic chest. I would start cleaning up the office and store it in the chest tomorrow.

Since I was here and everyone else was sleeping, I summoned my Grimoire since it had been some days from when I last checked on it.

「Quest:【Fortress I】 | Information: The six Fortresses protected the borders of the Empire, but held other functions. Learn about them. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest Complete:【Fortress I】 | Information: The six Fortresses protected the borders of the Empire, but held other functions. Learn about them. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest:【Princess I】 | Information: Bond with the Princess of the Empire. | Rewards: 2500 stored Mana, 50 Skill Points, +1 Charisma Point.」

「Quest Complete:【Princess I】 | Information: Bond with the Princess of the Empire. | Rewards: 2500 stored Mana, 50 Skill Points, +1 Charisma Point.」

「Quest:【Ossian I】 | Information: Learn the details of what an Ossian is. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest Complete:【Ossian I】 | Information: Learn the details of what an Ossian is. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest:【Oss Curse I】 | Information: Learn the details of what the Oss Curse is and how it functions. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest Complete:【Oss Curse I】 | Information: Learn the details of what the Oss Curse is and how it functions. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest:【Princess II】 | Information: Increase you standing with the Princess of the Empire. | Rewards: 2500 stored Mana, 50 Skill Points, +1 Charisma Point.」

「Quest Complete:【Princess II】 | Information: Increase you standing with the Princess of the Empire. | Rewards: 2500 stored Mana, 50 Skill Points, +1 Charisma Point.」

「Quest:【Princess III】 | Information: Form an Alliance with the Princess of the Empire. | Rewards: 25000 stored Mana, 500 Skill Points, +1 Intelligence Point, +1 Wisdom Point, +1 Charisma Point., +1 Luck Point」

「Quest Complete:【Princess III】 | Information: Form an Alliance with the Princess of the Empire. | Rewards: 25000 stored Mana, 500 Skill Points, +1 Intelligence Point, +1 Wisdom Point, +1 Charisma Point., +1 Luck Point」

「Quest:【Magic Chest】 | Information: Complete the creation of a Magic Chest. | Rewards: 25000 stored Mana, 500 Skill Points, +1 Dexterity Point, +1 Intelligence Point, 1000 Mana Stones (Synthesis Required).」

「Quest Complete:【Magic Chest】 | Information: Complete the creation of a Magic Chest. | Rewards: 25000 stored Mana, 500 Skill Points, +1 Dexterity Point, +1 Intelligence Point, 1000 Mana Stones (Synthesis Required).」

「Quest:【Ossian II】 | Information: Learn the various types of Ossians. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest Complete:【Ossian II】 | Information: Learn the Various types of Ossians. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest:【Oss Curse II】 | Information: Discover the origins of the Oss Curse. | Rewards: 5000 stored Mana, 50 Skill Points, +1 Wisdom Point.」

「Quest:【Altar】 | Information: Search for Altar Stones locations. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points.」

「Quest:【Technology I】 | Information: Old technologies can become new. Prepare schematics of various technologies and inventions. | Rewards: 500 stored Mana, 10 Skill Points, 1 Choice Blueprint of 3.」

Prompt: New Blessing gained: Blessing of Felicitas. | +1000 Skill Points.

Prompt: New Title gained: Champion of Felicitas.

Prompt: New Blessing gained: Blessing of Ira. | +1000 Skill Points.

Prompt: New Title gained: Champion of Ira.

Prompt: New spell learned.

「Mantra of Fortune | Information: A gift from Felicitas. Allows User to temporarily increase Luck, Willpower and Precision by +10. Critical Strike chance increased. Self Target. Higher grades allow multiple targets and longer active time. | Words of Power: [Luck. Fortune. Serendipity.]」

Prompt: New spell learned.

「Mantra of Rage | Information: A gift from Ira. Allows User to inflict Rage Status to target. Increases Strength, Endurance and Toughness by +10. Reduces Intelligence, Wisdom and Willpower by -10. Small chance to cause Berserker Status (5%). Increases Strength, Endurance and Toughness by +25. Reduces Intelligence, Wisdom and Willpower by -25. Single Target. Higher grades may cover Area of Effect and increases active time. | Words of Power: [Anger. Fury. Wrath.]」

Stored Mana:

63,825

Skill Points:

3,297

Prompt:

Items in queue:

1000 Mana Stones.

Begin Synthesis? YES | NO

Good fucking god, what the shit is this?!

I really should check on my Grimoire more often. So much quest spam and chain quests at that and two blessings of gods? My stored Mana and Skill Points skyrocketed as well. There are so many things I could buy from the 「Shop」 and I would be able to unlock a ton of items for purchase. This is freaking awesome… except for the 「Mana Stone」 queue. At five minutes per synthesis and one thousand items to synthesize, it would take around eighty-something hours.

Fuck it. I am tired and there is so much to take in. I have no idea if I could pause a synthesis or not, but I decided to select YES and left it on the desk. I would just figure it out tomorrow. With this I could go to sleep as it was already very late. Veronica had gone to her apartment a couple of hours ago and I am sure the servants were already sleeping. It was a dark night as there was no moon out, but I chose not to use a light so as not to disturb the girls already sleeping.

《!》

Hm? 《Vigilance》 gave me a warning sign. Someone is here…